Adventures at home and abroad

With a couple of friends we rented an apartment in Arran over the May Day Bank Holiday. It was a long time since we’d been and it was their first visit – it was definitely a success, but, as with our earlier weekend in Galloway, the weather was a bit iffy. Still, we got out and about and there was plenty to see.

It was a disappointment to find that Brodick Castle is closed this year, presumably for maintenance. However, the gardens were open and we spent a whole morning wandering about.

Anabel, Val and Kenn

Brodick Castle Gardens

Brodick Castle

Brodick Castle Gardens

Brodick Castle Gardens

Brodick Castle Gardens

Bavarian Summerhouse

Brodick Castle Gardens

Brodick Castle Gardens

Brodick Castle Gardens

Blethering on a bench

Later that day, we went to Lochranza Castle, a 13th century ruin which can be visited free of charge. What a beautiful setting!

Lochranza Castle

Lochranza

Lochranza Castle

Lochranza Castle

Lochranza Castle

Lochranza

Lochranza Castle

Lochranza

Lochranza Castle

The following day, we had lunch at the Kildonan Hotel and took a short walk afterwards to see Kildonan Castle. This is also 13th century, though there’s much less of it left and it’s not accessible – it’s actually in someone’s garden! The modern standing stones at the hotel were interesting too.

The gardens at Brodick Castle are beautiful, and you’re right, the setting for Lochranza Castle is fabulous. Your photos are so atmospheric. What are those yellow bushes there? They really add to the beauty of the place. 🙂

You are one of the first blogs I read after changing over from Blogger and wiping out my old blog, and still my fave. I am passing this along to you (don’t know if you are interested) but I am doing the pass the nominating to a fave. I have nominated you for the VB Award. You deserve many awards 🙂 https://365daysblog.com/

Thank you for all those kind words! *Blushes* I’m ambivalent about awards and challenges – my feeling at the moment is that I have a pile-up of posts waiting to be written so wouldn’t have the time. However, I appreciate very much that you picked me!